2024 council elections: Meet the candidates for Campbelltown City Council
With council elections almost upon us, it’s time to meet your local candidates and hear what they want to do to improve the Campbelltown area.
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The 2024 local council elections are almost upon us, with residents heading to polling booths across NSW next weekend.
In Sydney’s southwest, there are a whopping 15 spots up for grabs at Campbelltown City Council and 73 candidates running in total.
With a number of councillors retiring from the last term or unable to run due to the Liberal Party nominations stuff-up, locals can expect to see new faces joining the ranks for the next four years.
We have pulled together profiles on the lead candidates to outline who they are, their priorities if elected, and their thoughts on high-density housing to help you decide who should represent you.
Muhamad Masud Khalil - Independent (Community Voice of Australia)
Muhamad Masud Khalil is a Minto resident who served as Campbelltown’s deputy mayor in the previous term. He is heading up a team of 13 under independent group Community Voice of Australia, and can be found under “Group C”.
About me
My family consists of my wife, Masuma Khalil, who works as a general practitioner at St Andrews, and my son, Wasee Khalil, who is in Year 9 at Alpha Omega Senior College. I aim to promote multiculturalism and ensure equal rights and services for all communities. I am committed to sustainable development, environmental conservation, and protecting native animals. Additionally, I am advocating for more parks, sports grounds, and an international-standard multicultural hall.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Campbelltown?
The main issues facing Campbelltown include ensuring integration and representation of diverse communities, addressing environmental concerns through conservation and sustainable practices, advocating for better access to healthcare, education, and recreational services, and enhancing infrastructure to meet the growing population’s needs. Focusing on these areas will promote a more inclusive and sustainable Campbelltown.
Do you support high-density housing in Campbelltown?
Yes, I support high-density housing in Campbelltown. With the region experiencing significant migration, high-density housing offers an efficient and sustainable way to accommodate the growing population.
What will you do to mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna?
To mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna, particularly koalas, I would implement a scientifically informed approach that balances urban growth with sustainability. This includes creating wildlife corridors to connect habitats, promoting eco-friendly developments with green spaces, and conducting strict environmental assessments to guide decision-making. Engaging the community in conservation efforts and collaborating with local organisations will further support the protection of native species. By integrating these strategies, we can ensure that Campbelltown develops sustainably while preserving its natural environment.
How will you address Campbelltown Hospital’s staff parking issues?
I would engage in strong advocacy with the health ministry to negotiate subsidies for staff parking, making it more affordable and accessible. Additionally, I would request that the ministry explore other avenues, such as expanding parking facilities or creating partnerships with nearby businesses for additional parking options, to alleviate the problem and ensure that hospital staff have convenient and cost-effective parking solutions.
How will you address the lack of transport connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
To address the lack of transport connectivity with Western Sydney Airport, I would emphasise that without proper transportation links to nearby suburbs, the infrastructure development will not fully serve its purpose. Close to a million people may be left without access to the benefits of this development. Therefore, it is essential for the government to listen to the community’s needs and ensure that transportation facilities are comfortable and accessible for all. Strong advocacy for improved public transit options, such as expanded rail and bus services, will be crucial in connecting residents to the airport and maximising the positive impact of the development.
Masood Chowdhury - NSW Labor Party
Masood Chowdhury is seeking re-election for his seat in Campbelltown Council, running as number three after fellow Labor candidates and long-term councillors Darcy Lound and Meg Oates.
About me
I have been a proud member of the Labor Party for more than 30 years and have served eight years on council. The Campbelltown Labor council team is committed to improve local infrastructure and services, support local businesses and jobs, enhance community programs and events, and foster a sustainable and environmentally friendly community.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Campbelltown?
Campbelltown as a community is incredibly resilient when facing challenges and we do not shy away from helping each other out when times are tough. The main issues residents have been raising with me are housing, cost of living, high interest rates and inflationary pressures.
Do you support high-density housing in Campbelltown?
I believe housing is an essential need and we need to continue to work together in collaboration with the state and federal Labor governments to implement a coordinated approach to tackle the housing crisis. All the economic data clearly show’s housing is affected by demand and supply, and we know currently there is not just not enough supply in the market. I am not a NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) but rather support a sensible approach to development and believe mixed density and transit-oriented development is the best way forward as it encourages sustainability around transport and aims to create vibrant and walkable communities now and for future generations.
What will you do to mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna?
We need to have development if we want to continue having a sustainable local economy into the future. Development does not have to occur at the expense of our native flora and fauna. I will monitor planning and development to be carried out in accordance with environmental conservation and wildlife protection strategies. These strategies will include ensuring developers take measures such as building wildlife crossings, extra fencing, and install signs where it is necessary.
How will you address Campbelltown Hospital’s staff parking issues?
I feel strongly for the concerns of health workers and staff at Campbelltown Hospital. It was the previous Berejiklian state Liberal government which introduced the cruel parking policy. Charging thousands in parking fees in a climate of high interest rates and inflation to health workers is ridiculous. Our health workers sacrificed their own wellbeing to protect the community during Covid. I will work tirelessly to find a resolution with all necessary stakeholders to resolve the staff parking issues once and for all.
How will you address the lack of transport connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
Western Sydney is going through a period of rapid growth and development which is projected to continue well into the future. I will work hard to accelerate the completion of Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan (WSIP) projects and ensure transport connectivity with Western Sydney Airport is prioritised. It is critical we get this right because it will serve as part of a crucial foundation for smart communities in western Sydney.
Darcy Lound - NSW Labor Party
Darcy Lound is the chairman of the Macarthur Football Association and has held a seat on Campbelltown City Council since 2012. Mr Lound is leading the Labor Party ticket in the upcoming election. He did not respond to questions from this publication. The NSW Labor team can be found under “Group G” on the ballot paper.
Jayden Riviera - NSW Greens
Jayden Rivera is the lead candidate for the NSW Greens party in Campbelltown, listed under “Group E” in the upcoming election.
About me
I am 30 years old and have been an active member of the Campbelltown community my entire life. I will listen to the community and be a voice to push for good outcomes in the next term of council.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Campbelltown?
Campbelltown is at the centre of the housing and environmental crises. On council, I will work with the community to ensure that we achieve appropriate and sustainable solutions to both of these issues. It is crucial that we end the clearing and overdevelopment of core koala habitat, advocate for wildlife overpasses and corridors, and that council offers real solutions to the housing affordability crisis.
Do you support high-density housing in Campbelltown?
Providing affordable housing must be at the forefront of council decision making. The Greens support high density, affordable housing developments in Campbelltown. It is crucial that all new housing developments are designed to be environmentally sustainable and climate-conscious, are accessible, in close proximity to public transport and services, and are affordable in perpetuity with additional provisions being made for social housing.It is essential that Campbelltown Council works towards sensible solutions to the housing crisis. This does not have to be at the expense of wildlife habitat. Housing should be affordable and for the community, not for-profit developer interests.
What will you do to mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna?
Campbelltown is known for its biodiversity and especially for having Sydney’s largest koala population. Unfortunately, NSW planning laws and local zoning has prioritised the interests of large multi-national developers over this biodiversity, often leading to the clearing of critical habitat. This type of development is almost never sold or rented at an affordable rate. With a fast growing population, Campbelltown needs more affordable and public housing now. I will ensure that this is not at the expense of our amazing wild places.
In addition to working towards the protection of all remaining important habitat, I will ensure council plays its crucial role in restoration efforts. This can include; setting aside conservation areas, working with local Landcare organisations, replanting native vegetation, and creating wildlife corridors to connect fragmented habitats, creating artificial habitats, installing wildlife crossings (like overpasses or underpasses), and using barriers to keep animals away from dangerous areas.
How will you address Campbelltown Hospital’s staff parking issues?
Nurses, doctors, staff, patients or visitors, no one should have to pay to go to the Campbelltown Hospital. I will work with the community and council staff to put pressure on the state government to make all parking at our hospital free. This is an unfair revenue raising measure put in place for people visiting and working at the hospital who are already struggling with cost of living pressure.
How will you address the lack of transport connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
I believe we need to push for rapid bus services from Campbelltown to the Western Sydney Airport. It may be possible to secure grants for a council-owned and operated rapid bus to operate from Campbelltown to WSA.
Cameron McEwan - Sustainable Australia Party
Cameron McEwan is the lead candidate for the Sustainable Australia Party team, listed under “Group A” on the ballot paper.
About me
I’m a young and passionate local who, if elected, will strive to put our environment first (not just the bush but also the parks and land that we all spend time and live in), create more transparent planning systems to reign in the unsustainable overdevelopment, and provide the infrastructure and services that our community desperately needs. With care and careful planning, Campbelltown has a bright future ahead of it and I want to actively support that.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Campbelltown?
I believe Campbelltown is a naturally stunning and historically important area that is currently facing a pivotal moment in its development. Cost of living and housing affordability are impacting all Australians and I will do what I can to help address these issues for the Campbelltown community. We also have to urgently address the rampant overdevelopment in the area and create long-term, sustainable solutions to address climate change.
Do you support high-density housing in Campbelltown?
It’s no secret that Campbelltown and its surrounds is one of the highest growth areas in the country right now. Sustainable developments such as high density has its place in our city and there is an urgent need to build more housing for our growing population. However development approvals must be examined closely and only approved in areas where it’s appropriate such structure exist. We need to ensure that high density is supported first and foremost by the existing infrastructure that surrounds it, such as adequate roads, parking and local transport. If such developments were approved, it would be essential to protect local amenity and environments including tree canopies, biodiversity, character, heritage, views, acoustic and visual privacy, and solar access (sunlight), all of these would be taken into consideration by me before agreeing to any high density proposals.
What will you do to mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna?
It’s devastating to see the environmental impacts of rushed and rampant over-development in the Campbelltown area. I will support stronger laws to prevent inappropriate land and tree-clearing. I will also investigate the current Appin Rd proposal to see what additional resources need to be allocated to the area to protect our koalas and their habitats.
How will you address Campbelltown Hospital’s staff parking issues?
Hospital staff deserve to be able to go to work without having to pay exorbitant fees for parking. Due to contracts signed by the previous NSW government, I wouldn’t be able to alter the current fee structure. However, I would advocate for a discounted parking rate for staff, raising their concerns when the existing contract expires to the state and federal members, and I’d ensure the existing infrastructure is maintained to a reasonable standard. I would also explore what improvements to alternative transport might assist both staff and patients better access the hospital.
How will you address the lack of transport connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
As the airport begins to operate, it will become quickly clear that the Campbelltown area has been neglected in the services we need to access the airport in a time and cost effective manner. In the short term I will advocate for rapid bus services to better connect the community with the new airport. However we need a sustainable, long term solution that is fast and reliable and I will campaign for a train/metro line to be constructed that connects us with both the new airport and the northwest Sydney region.
Adam Zahra - Independent
Adam Zahra is running as an independent candidate in the upcoming election, leading a team of nine under “Group D”. He previously threw his hat in the ring as a One Nation candidate running for Campbelltown during the NSW election last year.
About me
A true local, born and raised, I am focusing on back-to-basics principals: transparency, roads, rates, rubbish and recreation. I’m also encouraging Australian values and giving people a fair go.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Campbelltown?
The biggest issues facing Campbelltown are the cost-of-living and the housing affordability crisis. The broken promise from the federal Labor government of a $275 decrease is a kick in the guts for people of Campbelltown. As a councillor, I will ensure that ratepayers are getting value for money spending. Delivering district parks in forgotten suburbs like St Andrews and ensuring facilities are up to date and well maintained. Giving residents of Campbelltown affordable/free options to entertain their families and affordable facilities to hold special events they may want to celebrate milestones achieved in their lives. Our independent group will stand against special rate rises moved in council for exorbitant spending projects that target elite or minority groups in the district and do not add to the lives of people of all abilities. We will cut through the red and green tape for home owners and small business to help them create wealth.
Do you support high density housing in Campbelltown?
It is important that the town’s infrastructure can support a sharp increase in population. Balance must be achieved between suburban and medium- to high- density development. We have main arterial roads in poor shape, a lack of direct route train lines to main work centres like Parramatta, and a newly remodelled hospital that is already suffering under the pressure of the greater Macarthur region’s growth boom. We have a lot to fix to prepare for further population growth. We also must ensure that Campbelltown doesn’t lose its suburban, family-orientated grass roots.
What will you do to mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna?
We will:
- Investigate new development proposals;
- Ensure that we adhere to the chief scientist’s requirements for flora and fauna welfare;
- Keep animal corridors open with underpasses and hazard mitigating tools like animal fencing;
- Address issues less spoken about, like the impact of feral introduced species on our native wildlife;
- Address the impact of introduced fauna species that are impacting the prosperous growth of natural fauna;
- Make sure that developments sequester areas in which natural habitat aren’t impacted by construction; and
- Plant more native flora and rehabilitate areas that have been impacted by much-needed development to curtail the housing crisis.
We believe great roads also aid in helping drivers and animals negotiate hazardous situations that arise on our streets. The development of Appin Road will be a great example of this, giving drivers a better road for them to avoid hazards such as animals. It will give a better outcome for drivers and wildlife in the event of an evasive manoeuvre.
How will you address Campbelltown Hospital’s staff parking issues?
I will be sending a letter to our state MP requesting him to deliver on the promise of free or flat rate parking fees to staff of Campbelltown Hospital. Contracts with the contractor must be broken and renegotiated.
How will you address the lack of transport connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
As a councillor, I will place pressure on the state and federal MPs of Campbelltown and Macarthur to ensure that Campbelltown, a neighbouring city of the Aerotropolis, is best positioned to take advantage of the economic growth the Western Sydney Airport has to offer. I will work in a bipartisan effort with state/federal MPs for Campbelltown and Macarthur, as well as the Minister for Transport and Minister for Western Sydney to deliver better bus, rail and road services for Campbelltown to the Western Sydney Airport.
Community First Totally Independent Party
Former councillors Joshua Cotter and Warren Morrison have banded their teams together to form the Community First Team, which can be found under “Group F”. Joshua Cotter is leading the ticket, followed by Warren Morrison and Seta Bebari.
Joshua Cotter - Independent (Community First Totally Independent Party)
Joshua Cotter is a father-of-two who was born in Campbelltown and has been a resident for more than 30 years. He was a councillor last term and served as deputy mayor between 2022 to 2023. He is a dedicated community volunteer and founded the Rise Above Foundation, which began as a band of volunteers with a ute offering to help any locals in need. He is also the chair of Campbelltown Council’s Youth Advisory Committee and was the director of Campbelltown Rotary Club from 2020 to 2022.
Warren Morrison - Independent (Community First Totally Independent Party)
Warren Morrison is running as Mr Cotter’s number two, also having experience as a deputy mayor of Campbelltown between 2021 and 2022. Mr Morrison describes himself as a proud husband, father and grandfather and is the owner of Sleeping Giant and James Lane furniture store in Campbelltown for more than 25 years. He is also the chairman of 24-Hour Fight Against Cancer Macarthur and a delegate of the Audit and Risk Advisory Flood and Bushfire Macarthur committees.
Seta Berbari - Independent (Community First Totally Independent Party)
Seta Berbari is the team’s third candidate, and is the owner of well-known Seta’s Cafe on Dumaresq St. She’s a proud mother of two and living in Ruse. Ms Berbari has been named number one of the 40 inspiring women in small business and volunteers for charities. She has worked with The Formal Project and has been a fundraiser for We are Community, Kids of Macarthur and Youth Solutions for the past nine years.
About the team
Our team is made up of community servants who genuinely want to stand up for the people of Campbelltown. You will not find us standing at shopping centres, train stations or trying to pop into random places for a photo op at election time. Our team prides itself on being of service to community in our everyday lives and serving everyone in Campbelltown. We want to promote Campbelltown as a destination to live, work and play, but most of all, be proud of. Our seven-point “IMPROVE Plan” is our commitment to working hard for Campbelltown.
What do you believe are the main issues facing Campbelltown?
While we are sure everyone will talk about the usual challenges surrounding housing, cost of living, high interest rates, maintaining a balance with development – all things we agree with. Our team is also focused on the challenge of slowly losing our identity as a city. We are committed to staying true to the Aussie traditions/values and rich history of our city, balanced by bringing in new ideas and fresh perspectives. It is truly time to cut the crap and get back to the basics, focusing on some of the grassroots issues that can mean a lot to local ratepayers.
Do you support high-density housing in Campbelltown?
The southwest Sydney region is one of the largest growth centres in Australia, its extremely important to have a balance between suburban and medium- to high-density developments. With this in mind, the lack of infrastructure and planning with the pressures of population growth is a challenge. We have a lot of work to do balanced by staying true to the foundations of what Campbelltown was built on.
What will you do to mitigate the impact of developments on native flora and fauna?
Ensuring the protection of our environment and animals by continuing having transparency and accountability with all new development applications. This will maintain a balance of urban growth, which is environmentally friendly and maintains our green space for all inhabitants. As a team, we don’t claim to be the experts in this space, we are constantly learning. Our team believes consulting with local experts and advocates are key to mitigating the impacts going forward.
How will you address Campbelltown Hospital’s staff parking issues?
Campbelltown Hospital has been a focus for both Mr Cotter and Mr Morrison as it affects so many people in our Macarthur region. They have both spoken in the council chambers about the challenges staff are facing with parking especially the dangers late at night. Additionally, Cr Cotter brought forward motions to investigate emergency wait times and staff shortages. Our team will continue advocating to the state government to address these issues.
How will you address the lack of transport connectivity with the Western Sydney Airport?
Our team will apply pressure to all levels of government and continue to show the reasons why it’s extremely important to connect Macarthur to the new Western Sydney Airport. Research shows that it would still be quicker to catch a train to Sydney Airport. Yet again, building amazing facilities for our future generations but with a lack of proper planning especially for connections and infrastructure.
Mukesh Chand - Independent
Mukesh Chand is leading a team of eight independents under “Group H” and is from Minto. Mr Chand did not respond to questions from this publication.
Lisa Riordan - Animal Justice Party NSW
Lisa Riordan is from St Andrews and is running as an ungrouped candidate for the Animal Justice Party located below the line on the ballot paper. The Animal Justice Party advocates for the ethical treatment of animals alongside responsible environmental stewardship. The party focuses on policy areas crucial to animal welfare such as ending puppy farming, factory farming, live animal export, and hunting, envisioning “a kinder Australia”. Ms Riordan did not respond to questions from this publication.
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